More than 128,000 Mourners Pay Respects to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, Some Queuing for "about 5 hours"

Mourners fill St. Peter's Basilica on Friday, April 25, 2025, as they wait to pay their final respects to Pope Francis. The Vatican reports more than 128,000 people have visited since Wednesday morning. | Elias Turk / EWTN News

By ACI Africa Staff

Vatican, 24 April, 2025 / 11:40 pm (ACI Africa).

Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time on Easter Monday, April 21, at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, as confirmed by the Holy See Press Office. The 88-year-old pontiff led the Catholic Church for a little more than 12 years.

Follow here for live updates of the latest news and information on the papal transition:

More than 128,000 mourners pay respects to Pope Francis at St. Peter’s

April 25, 2025 at 02:20 am ET

More than 128,000 people have visited St. Peter's Basilica to pay their final respects to Pope Francis, according to figures released by the Holy See Press Office on Friday afternoon.

The basilica, which remained open until 2:30 a.m. before reopening at 5:40 a.m. this morning, has seen a constant stream of mourners filing past the late pontiff's body since it was first placed on public view on Wednesday morning.

The Vatican reports that the extraordinary influx of pilgrims began at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday and continued through 8:00 a.m. Friday, with many waiting hours in line for a brief moment to bid farewell to the 266th successor of St. Peter.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thousands of pilgrims are paying their respects to Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica after waiting about 5 hours in line. ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PopeFrancis?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PopeFrancis</a> <a href="https://t.co/suMkyEhLkP">pic.twitter.com/suMkyEhLkP</a></p>— EWTN News (@EWTNews) <a href="

Thousands of pilgrims are paying their respects to Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica after waiting about 5 hours in line. 🙏🏻 #PopeFrancis pic.twitter.com/suMkyEhLkP
— EWTN News (@EWTNews) April 23, 2025

23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Pope Francis' body will remain on display until late Friday evening, with his funeral scheduled for tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. Rome time in St. Peter's Square.

Cardinal Becciu reportedly seeks conclave vote despite lost privileges

April 25, 2025 at 02:12 am ET

Cardinal Angelo Becciu is reportedly seeking to participate in the upcoming conclave despite having been stripped of his cardinalatial privileges in 2020 and later convicted of financial crimes.

The former deputy Vatican secretary of state tells Italian media he will “participate in the conclave,” claiming his cardinal privileges “remain intact.”

Read the full story here.

Cardinal Vinko Puljić confirms attendance at conclave after medical clearance

Cardinal Vinko Puljić, Archbishop emeritus of Sarajevo (Bosnia-Herzegovina) | Credit: Archdiocese of Sarajevo

Cardinal Vinko Puljić, the Archbishop emeritus of Sarajevo (Bosnia-Herzegovina), will attend the upcoming conclave after receiving medical clearance, reversing his earlier announcement that health concerns would prevent his participation.

According to a statement released Thursday by the Archdiocese of Sarajevo, Cardinal Puljić received a "positive medical assessment" clearing him to travel to Rome and participate in both the General Congregations and the conclave to elect Pope Francis' successor.

Having received this medical clearance on Thursday, the cardinal will not be able to attend Pope Francis' funeral and burial on Saturday, but "will travel to the Eternal City next week and join the College of Cardinals," the statement says.

Cardinal Tagle leads fourth Rosary for Pope Francis at St. Mary Major Basilica

Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle leads the fourth evening Rosary in memory of Pope Francis on Thursday at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, where the late pontiff will be buried following Saturday's funeral.

Tagle reflects on today's Gospel reading of the Risen Jesus appearing to His troubled disciples, asking them, "Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts?"

"These words of the Risen Christ are addressed to each of us to give hope and certainty to our lives," Cardinal Tagle says, explaining that Jesus "came to give us life, a life that will have no end."

This prayer service marks the fourth in a series being held during the nine-day mourning period, which will culminate with the pope's funeral and burial at St. Mary Major on Saturday, April 26.

The people who knew Bergoglio best: Pope Francis

Before becoming Pope Francis, he was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the powerful archbishop of Buenos Aires in Argentina. EWTN’s Colm Flynn travels to Pope Francis’ home city to meet the friends and family who knew him best:

Jesuit superior Father Sosa: Pope Francis did not seek popularity

Father Arturo Sosa, SJ, superior general of the Society of Jesus, reflected on the first Jesuit pope in a press conference on Thursday, saying Francis “did not seek to please everyone” or to measure himself by a popularity index.

“Once he chose to be a disciple of Jesus, his deep motivation in life was to put God’s will into practice,” Sosa said, calling the late pontiff “a man of prayer, who asked for prayers to make decisions according to the will of God.”

Jesuit Superior General Father Arturo Sosa, SJ, center, speaks about Pope Francis at a press conference at the Jesuit general curia in Rome on April 24, 2025. Credit: Hannah Brockhaus/CNA

How to watch Pope Francis’ funeral on EWTN

How can you watch Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday?

Here is a schedule of EWTN coverage of the funeral and of prayerful events during the interregnum.

EWTN News Vatican correspondent Paola Arriaza, Monsignor Roger Landry of the Pontifical Mission Societies, and Matthew Bunson, vice president and editorial director of EWTN News, are leading coverage live from Rome as we mourn the passing of Pope Francis and pray for his eternal rest and peace. Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

China largely silent on Pope Francis’ death amid global tributes

High-ranking heads of state and Catholic bishops in China have remained notably silent following the death of Pope Francis, while reactions from political and religious leaders across the globe poured out on social media within hours of the pope’s passing on Monday morning.

AsiaNews reported on Tuesday that Chinese officials are not permitted to express themselves publicly on Pope Francis’ death due the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)’s control over the Church there.

Top ecumenical initiatives of Pope Francis: a retrospective

Like all popes since the Second Vatican Council, Pope Francis made a point of reaching out to non-Catholics, building bridges and engaging in dialogue. His consistent efforts toward Christian unity over his 12-year pontificate produced several historic moments in ecumenical relations.

While his interreligious achievements — like the 2019 Abu Dhabi declaration on human fraternity, signed by Pope Francis and the grand imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb — have often garnered greater attention, the pope’s ecumenical initiatives with other Christian communities have also left a meaningful mark on his legacy.

Celebrities who met Pope Francis share their memories of the late pontiff

Celebrities who had the opportunity to meet Pope Francis during his papacy are remembering the late pontiff, sharing their experiences with the pope and reflecting on his warmth and legacy.

A group of comedians and humorists, including Chris Rock and Jimmy Fallon (center), share a lighthearted exchange with Pope Francis during a gathering with the pope in the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican on June 14, 2024. Credit: Vatican Media

Here are the cardinals offering Masses for the 9 days of mourning for Pope Francis

Following the death of Pope Francis, the Vatican has announced which cardinals will offer the traditional “Novendialies” Masses — nine days of mourning marked by solemn Masses offered for the repose of the soul of the deceased pope.

In keeping with ancient custom, each day of the Novendiales includes a requiem Mass following the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis (2024). While the Masses are open to the public, each day traditionally focuses on a particular community or group associated with the pope’s ministry from the Diocese of Rome to the Eastern Churches.

Find out who will say the Novendiales Masses here.

Cardinals process past Pope Francis' body in St. Peter's Basilica, Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Credit: Vatican Media

Pope Francis’ love for prisoners remained until the end

Prisoners always held a special place in Pope Francis’ heart, and he demonstrated his love for them throughout his pontificate.

Pope Francis greets an inmate after Mass in Rome’s Rebibbia Prison Complex on the feast of St. Stephen, Dec. 26, 2024. Credit: Vatican Media

More than 90,000 pass through St. Peter’s to pay respects to Pope Francis

The Holy See Press Office announces that since yesterday at 11 a.m., when St. Peter’s Basilica opened to the public for mourners to say their final goodbyes to Pope Francis, until 7 p.m. Thursday evening, more than 90,000 people have passed through the basilica to pay their respects to Pope Francis.

Mourners pass through St. Peter’s Basilica on April 24, 2025, at the Vatican to pay their respects and say a final goodbye to Pope Francis. Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

How Pope Francis spread devotion to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots

Of the many devotions Pope Francis promoted during his pontificate, perhaps none is better known than his devotion to Our Lady, Undoer of Knots (also referred to as Our Lady, Untier of Knots).

Remembering Pope Francis’ many apostolic journeys abroad

Pope Francis traveled abroad on apostolic journeys nearly 50 times during his 12-year papacy. The octagenarian pope continued to travel even after being hampered for a time by the COVID-19 pandemic and battling failing health in the latter years of his life.

Francis’ 47 apostolic journeys brought him to 68 countries, Vatican News reported Monday — and those journeys included a number of papal firsts.

Check out the interactive map here to see a selection of some of Pope Francis’ most notable apostolic journeys.

More than 61,000 visit St. Peter’s Basilica so far for Pope Francis’ viewing

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">More than 61,000 people have visited St. Peter’s Basilica since Wednesday to bid farewell to Pope Francis, Vatican authorities report. The basilica briefly closed Thursday morning. Pilgrims, clergy, and dignitaries continue to arrive, with extended hours allowing global mourners… <a href="https://t.co/y2hX4io8HR">pic.twitter.com/y2hX4io8HR</a></p>— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) <a href="

More than 61,000 people have visited St. Peter’s Basilica since Wednesday to bid farewell to Pope Francis, Vatican authorities report. The basilica briefly closed Thursday morning. Pilgrims, clergy, and dignitaries continue to arrive, with extended hours allowing global mourners… pic.twitter.com/y2hX4io8HR
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 24, 2025

24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Cardinals start conversation on Church, world ahead of conclave

The 113 cardinals now present in Rome are beginning to discuss “the Church and the world” in pre-conclave meetings at the Vatican, according to the Holy See Press Office.

The College of Cardinals, which met in the third general congregation for two and half hours on Thursday morning, is also finalizing details about their next meetings, including the choice of Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, former papal preacher, to give the meditation on the first day of the conclave. Abbot Donato Ogliari, OSB, will give the meditation at the start of next week.

Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, OFM Cap, gives the homily at the Good Friday liturgy in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome on March 29, 2024. Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

Other topics of discussion among the cardinals include further papal funeral and burial organization, and changes to who will celebrate the daily Masses for Pope Francis during the Novendiales, or nine days of mourning.

St. Peter's Basilica reopens after brief closure as thousands continue to pay respects to Pope Francis

Thousands of Catholics said their last goodbyes and paid their respects to Pope Francis on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, as the late pope lay in state in St. Peter’s Basilica. | Credit: Daniel Ibañez/CNA

The Vatican announces on early Thursday morning that St. Peter's Basilica briefly closed its doors between 5:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. local time before reopening for the continuing public viewing of Pope Francis' body.

The basilica is hosting a continuous stream of pilgrims, clergy, and dignitaries since the late pontiff's body was placed on public display Wednesday morning. Vatican officials maintain extended hours to allow as many visitors as possible to bid farewell to the Holy Father before Saturday's funeral.

Long lines continue to form around St. Peter's Square as mourners from around the world wait for their opportunity to pay final respects to the 266th successor of St. Peter, who led the Church for just over 12 years.

Cardinals gather in Rome: Attendance nearly doubles at second General Congregation

Cardinals in Rome | Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

The College of Cardinals sees a significant surge in attendance at Wednesday's General Congregation, with 103 cardinals now present in Rome — nearly double the approximately 60 who participated in Tuesday's initial gathering.

The cardinals begin with prayers for Pope Francis before finalizing the schedule for the Novendiales Masses, which will be celebrated by eight different cardinals following Saturday's funeral liturgy presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.

Meanwhile, throngs of faithful continue to pay their respects at St. Peter's Basilica, with waiting times stretching to five hours despite Vatican reports of 20,000 visitors by Wednesday evening.

JD Vance on Pope Francis: ‘He was a great Christian pastor’

April 23, 2025 at 04:48 pm ET

U.S. Vice President JD Vance says that he is refusing to politicize Pope Francis’ death, hailing the late pontiff as a “broad” figure and a “great” leader of the Catholic Church.

Americans who met Pope Francis in the United States share their reflections

April 23, 2025 at 04:20 pm ET

Among the people throughout the world remembering Pope Francis in a special way this week are three Americans who shared extraordinarily personal moments with him during his apostolic visit to the United States in September 2015.

Then-Deacon Keith Burney (left) serves at the papal Mass next to Pope Francis at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., in September 2015. Credit: EWTN/Screenshot

Handing out ice cream, visiting the poor: Charity of Pope Francis on his patron saint’s day

April 23, 2025 at 02:56 pm ET

Pope Francis, baptized as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, celebrated his patron saint’s feast day every April 23. The patron saint’s day of the pope is a holiday at the Vatican and Pope Francis usually celebrated it with acts of charity toward people in need.

The patron saint of the late pontiff, St. George, is credited with protecting the papacy and is also known as an intercessor in the fight against evil.

Pope Francis was known to take every opportunity to celebrate special occasions with the poorest, as was also the case on his birthday, when he often invited hundreds of them to dine with him at the Vatican.

Thousands bid farewell to Pope Francis as he lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica

Thousands of Catholics said their last goodbyes and paid their respects to Pope Francis on Wednesday as the late pope lay in state in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Long lines of mourners, many waiting more than four hours under the hot Roman sun, wound around St. Peter’s Square on the first day of viewing on April 23. Vatican officials indicated that they might need to extend the basilica’s hours past midnight to accommodate the large turnout.

Long lines of mourners, many waiting more than four hours under the hot Roman sun, wound around St. Peter’s Square on the first day of viewing for Pope Francis on April 23, 2025, at the Vatican. Credit: Courtney Mares/CNA

Thousands of Catholics pay their respects to Pope Francis on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, as the late pope lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica. Credit: Courtney Mares/CNA

As people slowly made their way to the basilica, some prayed the rosary, while others sang hymns. Once inside, people were able to spend a moment in prayer before the late pope’s open casket in front of the main altar and the tomb of St. Peter.

Clad in red vestments, a bishop’s miter on his head, and a rosary clasped in his hands, Francis was watched over in silence by four Swiss Guards standing vigil.

Swiss Guards stand vigil as Pope Francis lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23, 2025, at the Vatican. Credit: Hannah Brockhaus/CNA

The public viewing in the basilica will continue for three days, concluding Friday at 7 p.m. when the casket will be sealed ahead of the funeral.

Pope Francis’ tomb is prepared at Basilica of St. Mary Major

Visitors to the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major) on Wednesday witnessed ongoing construction of the tomb of Pope Francis, who will be interred in the soaring basilica after his funeral on Saturday.

Pilgrims visit the Basilica of St. Mary Major on April 23, 2025, in Rome as Pope Francis’ tomb is being prepared for his burial.

The Holy Father had specifically requested to be buried in the basilica due to his devotion to the Blessed Mother. The church was completed in 1743.

Pilgrims visit the Basilica of St. Mary Major on April 23, 2025, in Rome as Pope Francis’ tomb is being prepared for his burial.

Francis will join seven other popes buried at Maria Maggiore. The Holy Father regularly visited the basilica to pray and did a brief pilgrimage there earlier this month, about nine days before his death.

Massimiliano Strappetti: The last man Pope Francis saw and thanked before his death

April 23, 2025 at 11:49 am ET

Having cared for the aging Pope Francis as his personal nurse since 2022, Italian nurse Massimiliano Strappetti was among the few people who saw the Holy Father moments before his death on Easter Monday.

Before being appointed Pope Francis’ personal nurse in August 2022, Strappetti was the nursing coordinator for the Vatican’s health department. He started working in the Vatican in 2002 after having worked eight years in the intensive care unit of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.

The pope’s last words and final greetings were reportedly addressed to Strappetti, the man he trusted to care for him throughout the multiple illnesses and health emergencies he endured in the last years of his life.

Pope Francis is seen with his personal nurse, Massimo Strappetti, at the Jubilee of the Sick in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City, Sunday, April 6, 2025. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

Who are the many popes not buried in the Vatican?

April 23, 2025 at 11:14 am ET

Pope Francis ordered that upon his death he would be buried in the Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of St. Mary Major). This basilica was very dear to him. Francis, however, will not be the only pope to be buried outside of the Vatican City State.

In the history of the Catholic Church, there have been 266 popes, and only about 30 of them have been buried outside of Rome.

Who are the other popes not buried in the Vatican? Find out here.

Pope Francis’ tomb is prepared at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore (St. Mary Major) in Rome, April 23, 2025.

The moment Pope Francis left Casa Santa Marta for the last time

This is the moment when Pope Francis leaves Casa Santa Marta, the home where he lived for 12 years. The body of the Holy Father has been translated to St. Peter’s Basilica, where he will lie in state until Friday, April 25. pic.twitter.com/sxtXCJpyFP
— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) April 23, 2025

‘Sede vacante’ and ‘interregnum’ — what do they mean?

April 23, 2025 at 10:54 am ET

As Catholics around the world mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a highly regulated process has now begun that will see the pope’s earthly body laid to rest and a conclave convened to elect his successor.

As of this moment, the chair of St. Peter is vacant — and you may have seen the phrases “sede vacante” and “interregnum” being used to describe the present period. Here’s a breakdown of what those phrases mean.

Due to high turnout, Vatican considers extending time of visitation for Pope Francis

April 23, 2025 at 10:24 am ET

“In view of the high turnout of faithful wishing to pay homage to the Holy Father, the possibility of extending the opening of the Vatican Basilica beyond the established time of midnight is not ruled out,” the Holy See Press Office announces Wednesday afternoon Rome time.

Preparations for global media coverage of papal funeral get underway

April 23, 2025 at 10:14 am ET

In anticipation of Pope Francis’ funeral Mass on Saturday, the city of Rome has installed jumbo-screens all along Via della Conciliazione, the main thoroughfare to the Vatican, and around the city center, to allow more people to participate in the liturgy.

Jumbo-screens have been installed along Via della Conciliazione, the main thoroughfare to St. Peter's Basilica, in anticipation of Pope Francis' funeral Mass on April 26, 2025. Credit: Hannah Brockhaus/CNA

The global event will be covered by press from around the world, hundreds of whom have descended on Rome to report on the historic moment in the Catholic Church. As St. Peter’s Square and the surrounding areas buzzed with pilgrims, tourists, and journalists on Wednesday, platforms for live broadcasts were being constructed in multiple locations close to St. Peter’s Basilica. The Holy See Press Office also announced on Wednesday that it had opened a second work station for media close to the Vatican, in addition to the main press office.

How the faithful bid final farewell as Pope Francis lies in state until Friday

April 23, 2025 at 07:43 am ET

Now is the time to say farewell in person: Pope Francis will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica for the public to see, pray, and say goodbye until Friday evening, April 25.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell will close the coffin in preparation for the funeral Mass on Saturday.

The first mourners enter St. Peter’s Basilica to visit the mortal remains of Pope Francis and to pray for the late Holy Father. The faithful can visit Pope Francis’ remains until Friday evening. pic.twitter.com/G8NEU407xl
— ChurchPOP (@Church_POP) April 23, 2025

Pope Francis’ coffin to be sealed on Friday, Vatican announces

April 23, 2025 at 06:00 am ET

The Vatican says that Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, will preside over the rite of closing Pope Francis’ coffin on Friday, April 25, at 8 p.m. Rome time (2 p.m. ET) in St. Peter’s Basilica.

According to a statement released by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, master of pontifical liturgical celebrations, this private ceremony follows the protocols established in the Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis (The Order of Funeral Rites for the Roman Pontiff).

The solemn rite takes place in the presence of various Church authorities as the late pontiff’s body is prepared for burial, which will occur after the funeral Mass on Saturday.

Thousands of pilgrims enter St. Peter's Basilica to bid farewell to Pope Francis

Swiss Guards accompany the pallbearers with the wooden coffin of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square on April 23, 2025, during the translatio — the solemn transfer of the pope's body for public viewing ahead of Saturday's funeral Mass. | Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

A view of St. Peter's Square filled with mourners gathered for prayers following the translatio of Pope Francis' body on April 23, 2025. The late pontiff, who died on Easter Monday at age 88, will lie in state until his funeral Mass on Saturday, April 26. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

The late pontiff's coffin rests before the altar on a modest wooden platform, placed almost at ground level.

Pilgrims are pausing to pray for a few moments before moving on, in a solemn procession that will continue until the pope's burial at St. Mary Major Basilica following Saturday's funeral Mass, which will be celebrated by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.The transfer of Pope Francis' coffin to St. Peter's Basilica began at 9:00 a.m. local time today, April 23, following a prayer ceremony in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, where Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, sprinkled holy water over the pontiff's body.

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re leads Rosary prayer in St. Peter’s Square

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Faithful gather in prayer at the edge of St. Peter's Square during the Rosary for the late Pope Francis on Tuesday evening, April 22, 2025. | Credit: Daniel Ibáñez/CNA

Thousands of faithful gather in St. Peter's Square Tuesday evening to pray the Rosary for the soul of Pope Francis, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals.

Under the twilight sky, religious sisters, priests, and lay faithful from around the world unite in prayer for the late pontiff who often concluded his public appearances with the simple request: "Please, don't forget to pray for me."

Before beginning the Rosary, Cardinal Re reminds those present that “death is not a door that closes, but rather the entrance to the heavenly Jerusalem, where mourning is turned into dancing and the garment of grief into a robe of joy.”

The Rosary, focused on the Glorious Mysteries, highlighted the Church's unity in grief and hope. “It is the entire flock of Christ, the Good Shepherd, that prays for Pope Francis,” Cardinal Re says.

This communal prayer marks one of several public moments of mourning scheduled before Pope Francis' funeral, which will take place on Saturday.

Thank you for returning to the Square, Pope Francis

“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” Pope Francis said the day before he passed... Thank you for returning to the Square, Pope Francis. pic.twitter.com/kjMQHmxk8t
— EWTN News (@EWTNews) April 22, 2025

General congregation begins: Cardinals suspend beatifications, swear to secrecy

At the first general congregation of cardinals in Rome on Tuesday, the estimated 60 cardinals in attendance chose the date of Pope Francis’ funeral and suspended beatification celebrations.

The closed-door meeting to discuss the upcoming conclave and other issues pertaining to the interregnum took place at 9 a.m. local time the day after the death of the pontiff as cardinals hurried from around the world to the Eternal City.

As part of the interregnum period, the cardinals will meet frequently to make various decisions about the upcoming papal funeral and conclave.

What happens during the Vatican’s 9 days of mourning for the pope?

With the death of Pope Francis on Monday, the Catholic Church has entered a mourning period, which will include nine days of Masses offered for the repose of his soul known as the “Novendiales.” 

What happens during these nine days? CNA explains here.

Two days before his death, Pope Francis made final call to pastor of Gaza parish

Father Gabriel Romanelli, the pastor of Holy Family Parish in Gaza, summed up Pope Francis’ last call on Saturday night, April 19, moments before going to St. Peter’s Basilica to pray before the Easter Vigil.

“He told us he was praying for us, blessed us, and thanked us for our prayers on his behalf,” Romanelli said.

Over the past 19 months, the Holy Father has maintained constant contact with Gaza as it suffered the effects of the Israel-Hamas war.

The last time the world saw Pope Francis

Pope Francis greeted the faithful around the world for the last time from St. Peter’s Basilica on the most important day for Christians: Easter, the heart and foundation of the Catholic faith that proclaims Christ’s triumph over sin and death.

Filipino cardinals preside over requiem Masses for Pope Francis before heading to Rome

Cardinal José Advíncula, OP, and Cardinal Pablo David — two of three cardinal electors appointed by Pope Francis — on Tuesday presided over requiem Masses in the Philippines and praised the late Holy Father for his humble service and love for the poor and wounded.

Advíncula and David are expected to travel to Rome to participate — alongside fellow Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect for the section of first evangelization of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization — in the upcoming conclave to elect the next leader of the universal Church.

It will be the first time in the Church’s history that three Filipino cardinals will participate in a papal conclave.

Church leaders in Middle East pay tribute to Pope Francis

In the midst of the Easter season — a time Pope Francis long proclaimed as a message of hope — churches across the Middle East are bidding the pope farewell with liturgies and prayer, while Arab leaders are paying tribute to him with messages of respect and appreciation.

Pope Francis’ grandfatherly advice

Across many homilies, audiences, and off-the-cuff reflections throughout his papacy, Pope Francis offered such grandfatherly advice on marriage, family, youth, the elderly, and other aspects of Catholic life — using signature turns of phrase.

Here are some highlights of other times he offered folksy advice to the faithful.

Vatican releases pope’s reflections on aging, dying

The Vatican on Tuesday released a previously unpublished text by Pope Francis following his passing on Monday containing the late pontiff’s reflections on aging and death.

“We must not be afraid of old age; we must not fear embracing becoming old, because life is life, and sugarcoating reality means betraying the truth of things,” wrote Francis in the preface to a book in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, “Awaiting a New Beginning: Reflections on Old Age,” which will be available on Thursday.

Cardinal Goh: Pope Francis was dedicated to leading Church’s ‘new evangelization’

Cardinal William Goh celebrated a memorial Mass for Pope Francis in Singapore on Tuesday, saying the late Holy Father had a “heart for everyone” and was dedicated to leading the Church toward a “new evangelization” through mercy and love.

After expressing the “real shock” the Church felt following the news of the pope’s death on Easter Monday, Goh said the Archdiocese of Singapore swiftly organized the Tuesday afternoon memorial Mass held in the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.

Key terms to know at the start of a papal transition

The start of a papal interregnum brings many terms that may not be familiar to many people, including many Catholics.

Here are some of the key words and phrases that will be used throughout the interregnum, especially the conclave to elect the new pope.

12 key quotes that defined Pope Francis’ 12-year pontificate

Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis gave many addresses, talks, and statements, and he penned numerous encyclicals and apostolic exhortations emphasizing themes of hope, mercy, compassion, and joy.

His words often focused on the dignity of the poor, migrants, refugees, and the elderly as well as the importance of marriage, family life, and care for the environment. Advocating for “synodality,” Francis also called for a Church that listens and walks together.

Here is a collection of quotes that reflect Pope Francis’ vision for a more compassionate and Christ-centered world.

10 quotes from Pope Francis on creation, care for the environment

In remembrance of the Pope Francis’ message urging the faithful to take action to protect the natural environment and to celebrate Earth Day, marked every year on April 22, here are 10 quotes from Pope Francis on creation and care for the environment.

Remembering Pope Francis’ 2015 visit to the United States

Pope Francis visited the United States just once, nearly 10 years ago, in September 2015.

Despite the brevity of the visit, he accomplished a lot: Attracting hundreds of thousands of participants, he canonized a new saint (St. Junípero Serra), became the first pope to ever address a joint session of Congress, and galvanized the U.S. Catholic community with his presence and his speeches on the East Coast.

Here’s a look back at his visit.

The final hours of Pope Francis: ‘Thank you for bringing me back to the Square’

Pope Francis’ last public act was a blessing of the entire world on Easter Sunday, delivered from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica — the same place where he was introduced as pope 12 years ago.

In the wake of his death, the Vatican released further details on Tuesday about the pope’s final hours.

Vatican releases first photos of Pope Francis after his death

April 22, 2025 at 07:30 am ET

The Vatican on Tuesday released the first photos of Pope Francis after his death, showing him dressed in red vestments and lying in a simple, wooden coffin inside the chapel of the Santa Marta guesthouse.

The photos, taken on the evening of April 21 during the first step of the papal funeral rites, show the pontiff, who died earlier in the day at the age of 88, holding a rosary and wearing the papal miter and pallium.

Pope Francis to be buried at St. Mary Major Basilica following Saturday funeral

April 22, 2025 at 07:15 am ET

Pope Francis’ funeral Mass will take place Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican announced Tuesday.

The Mass will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals.

Argentinians pray for native son Pope Francis

April 21, 2025 at 07:55 pm ET

Thousands of Argentines gathered Monday evening in the Basilica of San José de Flores in Buenos Aires, where Pope Francis discovered his vocation, to pray for the soul of the beloved shepherd they always hoped to see again.

Thousands gather for rosary in St. Peter’s Square after death of Pope Francis

April 21, 2025 at 07:32 pm ET

The Vatican on Monday evening hosted a praying of the rosary in St. Peter’s Square following the death of Pope Francis earlier in the day.

U.S bishops mourn Pope Francis’ death, recall his ‘pastoral’ legacy

April 21, 2025 at 07:30 pm ET

Bishops and cardinals around the United States joined in prayer and mourning following the death of Pope Francis on Monday, recalling the pope’s legacy of service, prayer, and faith.

Who is Cardinal Farrell, the camerlengo and a key figure in the papal transition?

April 21, 2025 at 06:59 pm ET

Following the death of Pope Francis, an Irish-American cardinal is playing a leading role in overseeing Vatican affairs until the election of a new pope.

Learn more about Cardinal Kevin Farrell, a key figure in the papal succession, and his responsibilities as the camerlengo.

Pope Francis’ death: Vatican holds first step in papal funeral rites

April 21, 2025 at 05:58 pm ET

Following Pope Francis’ death at age 88 on Easter Monday, the Vatican carried out the first stage in the papal funeral rites, called “the rite of the ascertainment of death and deposition in the coffin.”

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the camerlengo, presided over the rite in the chapel of Pope Francis’ Vatican residence, the Casa Santa Marta, just a little over 12 hours after the pontiff’s death, at 8 p.m. Rome time.

According to the Vatican, the rite took under one hour and the pontiff’s remains will stay overnight in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta.

Vatican reveals Pope Francis’ cause of death, releases testament

April 21, 2025 at 03:09 pm ET

The Holy See on Monday evening released the death certificate detailing the cause of death of Pope Francis, who died in his Vatican apartment at 7:35 a.m. in Rome on April 21, the day after Easter.

The Vatican also released the pope’s testament, which can be read in its entirety here.

More world leaders mourn Pope Francis, praise his legacy

April 21, 2025 at 02:28 pm ET

World leaders from around the globe released statements of mourning and remembrance on Monday in response to the death of Pope Francis, who passed away Monday morning at age 88.

What happens to Pope Francis’ remains after death?

April 21, 2025 at 01:52 pm ET

The Catholic Church has many historical customs and traditions related to the handling of a pope’s mortal remains between the time of his death and his burial.

Japanese prime minister ‘deeply saddened’ by pope’s death

April 21, 2025 at 01:22 pm ET

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Monday that he was “deeply saddened” by the passing of Pope Francis in Rome earlier in the day.

The prime minister “extended his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and people of Japan,” the minister’s office said in a press statement.

The pope “worked hard to protect the environment and promote peaceful diplomacy” during his pontificate, the prime minister said.

UN secretary-general: Pope Francis was ‘a transcendent voice for peace’

April 21, 2025 at 01:17 pm ET

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday hailed the late Pope Francis as a “transcendent voice for peace, human dignity, and social justice,” praising the departed pontiff for his work reaching out to “those left on the margins of life.”

The pope “was a man of faith for all faiths — working with people of all beliefs and backgrounds to light a path forward,” Guterres said in a press statement.

“Our divided and discordant world will be a much better place if we follow his example of unity and mutual understanding in our own actions,” the leader said.

Trump orders U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff for Pope Francis

April 21, 2025 at 01:10 pm ET

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday ordered U.S. government flags to be flown at half staff in honor of the late Pope Francis.

The president said in a Truth Social post that he made the order “as a mark of respect for the memory” of the departed pontiff.

Flags should be flown at half-staff at “all public buildings and grounds,” including embassies and consular offices, “until sunset on the day of [the pope’s] interment.”

Pope Francis has died. What happens next?

April 21, 2025 at 12:18 pm ET

The death of Pope Francis begins the so-called “sede vacante,” a period when the See of Peter lies vacant. The time of the sede vacante after the pope’s death brings with it a series of symbols, traditions, and protocols that have existed for centuries and express the papacy’s essence. 

Dalai Lama: Francis ‘dedicated himself to the service of others’

April 21, 2025 at 12:14 pm ET

The Dalai Lama on Monday mourned the passing of Pope Francis, urging the world to take up the late pontiff’s example of service and generosity.

The Buddhist leader wrote to Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the apostolic nuncio to India, to “express his sadness on lea

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